TRAVEL
The Journey Is the Destination
Set out on a road trip this summer — and use your CAA Membership for savings and rewards along the way.
By Alexis Nicols
A road trip isn’t just about the places you visit, it’s about the way you get there. Pack your vehicle, get going and enjoy the drive. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF TOURISM NEW BRUNSWICK
NOTHING SAYS “SUMMER” quite like a road trip. You may have a specific destination in mind, or several stops to sightsee. Maybe it’s a visit with family and friends — or maybe you’re just feeling like freestyling it and going where the wind blows you next.
That wide-open road offers a world of possibilities. Cruise the Cabot Trail on a motorcycle. Cross Confederation Bridge with your car top down. Set out for the Viking Trail on an RV adventure. Atlantic Canada has something to entice all types of travellers. Glorious beaches, scenic hiking trails, lively cities, quaint fishing villages — they’re all waiting to be explored.
With so many spectacular landmarks to experience throughout Atlantic Canada, Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail, Confederation Bridge connecting PEI to New Brunswick and the Viking Trail in Newfoundland and Labrador are highlights that showcase the region. | PHOTOS: COURTESY OF NICK HAWKINS/TOURISM NEW BRUNSWICK; WALLY HAYES/TOURISM NOVA SCOTIA; STEPHEN DesROCHES/©TOURISM PEI; ©BARRETT & MacKAY PHOTO/NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR TOURISM
Before heading out, make sure to take full advantage of all the perks that come with being a CAA Member, which means so much more than just roadside assistance. Your Membership adds value to every summer adventure. Plan your trip to include savings on food, lodging, outdoor gear and even gas — those rewards and discounts add up quickly. Save on dine-in bills and takeout, along with shopping for summer gear. Check out discounts at CAA Rewards® Partners. They include PEI’s Claddagh Oyster House and all locations of Harvey’s. Road trips are often about short stays — at campsites, hotels, resorts and B&Bs — you can anticipate savings in that regard. Member discounts are not restricted to hotel chains; many independent and local accommodations offer discounts, too.
Keep in mind also you’ll be spending a lot of time in your vehicle, so make sure it’s road-trip-ready. Or you could opt for a rental car, perhaps even a motorhome. Whether it’s your own car or a rental, ensure that you have the roadside assistance plan customized to your specific needs. It’s always a good idea to be prepared in the event of, say, a flat tire, engine trouble or running out of gas. Remember, you can always depend on CAA to get you back on the road.
You may want to consider specialized roadside assistance. Motorcycle and RV coverage ensures that you have the right service tailored to your choice of vehicle for the trip. “Your membership pairs with you, not your vehicle,” says Heather Johnston, CAA Atlantic’s marketing manager. “Our technicians are trained to service many vehicles, including EVs, so you always have flexibility and security on the road.”
Planning a long-distance trip? How about upgrading to a Premier® Membership, which includes extended towing and additional perks for a worry-free adventure?
Go ahead, pack your bags and provisions, get your vehicle road-trip-ready and don’t forget your best travel companion — your CAA Membership Card. Enjoy the drive. CAA
Pro tip: Don’t wait until you need help on the road. Contact CAA to verify what’s included in your CAA Membership.